On October 17 and 18, 2024, Seneca High School's Agriscience & Leadership Academy hosted a special premiere of "It Starts in the Classroom," a documentary produced by the National Association of Agricultural Educators. The event celebrated Ms. Whitney Evans, a dedicated first-year agriculture teacher whose inspiring journey from FFA member to educator was featured in this national film. As students and faculty gathered, the premiere highlighted not only Ms. Evans' path in agricultural education but also Seneca's vibrant community of educators and students committed to making a positive impact through education.

A Star in the Making

Whitney Evans, described by colleagues as a "ball of good energy" with an ever-present smile, took center stage in the documentary. Her journey from FFA president in high school to her dream job at Seneca resonated deeply with the audience. During the screening, one student excitedly exclaimed, "That's my teacher right there!"

The documentary follows two college students on their path to becoming agriculture teachers. As the second Hispanic agriculture teacher in Kentucky, a first-generation college student, and a minority in a male-dominated field, Ms. Evans' story is one of perseverance and breaking barriers. Her uncle's career at horse farms in Lexington inspired her to pursue agriculture education, giving voice to students of all backgrounds. Seneca was her dream school, both for its Urban Agriculture program and its celebration of diversity.

The Documentary Premiere

The premiere was an emotional affair, complete with popcorn, a red carpet, and plenty of tissues for the touching moments. Ms. Evans' impact on her students was evident in their reactions. Shamyia, a 12th-grade student in the plant science pathway, was moved to tears during the screening. "I feel so good to see Ms. Evans doing so well. Everyone is so proud of her," Shamyia remarked, highlighting the importance of representation in education.

A Unique Program Takes Center Stage

The spotlight on Ms. Evans also illuminated Seneca's Urban Agriculture program, the only one of its kind in Kentucky. Students receive hands-on experiences in real-world scenarios, exemplifying the Academies of Louisville's commitment to innovative, practical education.

Ms. Evans praised the Academies model, emphasizing its hands-on approach to developing young professionals and its interdisciplinary nature. "Our Ag program is rigorous," she noted, underlining the high standards maintained in the Agriscience & Leadership Academy.

A Broader Impact

The documentary's impact extended beyond agriculture educators and students. Academy Coach Emily Wirtzberger emphasized that while Ms. Evans was the star, the documentary spoke to all educators: "This is about ALL of us who work in education. All of us who work hard to make a difference every day."

Students in other pathways also found inspiration in the documentary. J'nae, a twelfth-grade student in the education pathway, was inspired by witnessing the journey of one of her teachers on screen. As a fellow minority woman, she could see herself in Ms. Evans' story. Similarly, Shamyia, aspiring to a career in culinary arts, found motivation in Ms. Evans' journey to follow her own career aspirations.

Whitney Evans' story, from FFA president to starring in a national documentary, serves as a powerful testament to the impact of dedicated educators and innovative programs like the Urban Agriculture program at Seneca High School. Her journey continues to inspire students and colleagues alike, proving that with passion and perseverance, dreams cultivated in the classroom can indeed blossom into remarkable realities. Seneca rolled out the red carpet not just for one teacher, but for all educators who continue to shape tomorrow's leaders.